Nanotubular phyllosilicates as a new opportunity for Cu-Si catalysts for enhanced CO2 hydrogenation to methanol

This study addresses the development of efficient catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol using nanotubular copper phyllosilicates. Methanol is a promising hydrogen carrier, yet conventional Cu-based catalysts suffer from high CO selectivity via the reverse water–gas shift reaction. Promoters such as Zn, Ga, and Ce have been employed, but these systems are often complex and costly. Copper phyllosilicates offer an attractive alternative due to their high surface area, tunable morphology, and stabilization of active Cu species. Recent advances demonstrated that Cu-phyllosilicate nanotubes (Cu-Phy-NT) significantly outperform conventional Cu/SiO2 catalysts, with cerium showing a positive promotional effect while gallium unexpectedly inhibited activity. However, the dynamic chemical states of copper and promoters under reaction conditions remain unclear. This project aims to elucidate the surface chemistry of Cu, Ce, and Ga species in Cu-phyllosilicate nanotubes under operando conditions using Near-Ambient Pressure X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (NAP-XPS). Depth profiling (2–7 nm) and comparison with supported catalysts will provide insights into the active sites and their evolution under CO2 hydrogenation. The expected outcomes include a mechanistic model of promoter effects, enabling rational catalyst design strategies to enhance methanol selectivity and yield in sustainable energy conversion.